Washington, D.C. – As the Capitals celebrate a 5‑3 home‑opener victory over the Pittsburgh Penguins, veteran forward Alex Ovechkin used the post‑game interview to answer a question about his unusual bench beverage. The Great 8, who announced this will be his final NHL season, said his habit of drinking Coca‑Cola during games began with a trainer back in his native Russia.
Trainer’s advice sparked a sugary tradition
During a live interview with TNT’s Paul Bissonette, Ovechkin recounted the story: “One of my trainers who I work with back in Russia told me — he was a marathon runner — and he said, ‘When you’re tired, you’re exhausted, you need some sugar in your body or some energy, and we always drink Coca‑Cola.’ So I started drinking Coke, and I think it worked.” The Capitals’ star added, “Yeah, I’d say it probably did.”
A habit that stands out in today’s sports nutrition landscape
Ovechkin’s preference for a high‑sugar soda contrasts sharply with the modern trend toward meticulously planned diets and sports‑drink formulas. While many athletes now rely on electrolyte‑rich beverages and calorie‑controlled meals, the Capitals’ captain continues to reach for a classic soft drink on the bench.
Fans have long noted Ovechkin’s quirky dietary choices, from boarding the team plane with a Subway sandwich and a bag of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos to his iconic pre‑game rituals. Yet his Coke habit remains one of the most recognizable quirks, often highlighted in photographs and video clips from games across his 20‑year career.
Another NHL veteran shares the soda love
Ovechkin is not alone in his soda preference. Phil Kessel, who holds the NHL record for 1,064 consecutive regular‑season games, has also been spotted sipping Coca‑Cola during games. Both players credit the beverage for providing a quick energy boost during the intense pace of professional hockey.
What the habit means for fans and the sport
While nutritionists might question the long‑term health impact of regular soda consumption, Ovechkin’s success on the ice suggests that, for him, the habit has not hindered performance. His 1,300‑plus career goals and numerous accolades—including three Hart Trophy wins as league MVP—underscore a career built on skill, determination, and a personal routine that includes a fizzy drink.
As Ovechkin prepares to hang up his skates after the 2026‑27 season, his Coke‑drinking story adds a human‑interest layer to his legacy, reminding fans that even the greatest athletes have personal quirks that shape their daily routines.
Looking ahead
With Ovechkin’s retirement on the horizon, the Capitals organization and its supporters are reflecting on his contributions to the franchise and the sport. The team will continue to build around its young talent while honoring the legacy of a player who, among many other achievements, made a soft drink a staple of his game‑day experience.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
